Stroke effects 'extremely concerning,' says lawyer for accused serial rapist as fitness assessment extended

The Calgary doctor examining an accused serial rapist who suffered a stroke nearly three months ago has not been able to determine if he is fit to stand trial.

Richard Mantha, 60, faces 20 chargesincluding sexual assault with a weapon, kidnapping, forcible confinement and administering noxious substancesin connection with allegations he drugged and raped sixwomen, most of whom worked in Calgary's sex trade.

In May, Mantha suffered a stroke while in custody waiting for his trial to resume in November after he fired his lawyers mid-trial months earlier.

An assessment was ordered so that a forensic psychiatrist could determine how the stroke may have affected Mantha'scognitive capacity.

'An extremely concerning situation'

On Tuesday, Mantha walked into court with a sheriff unassisted, looking as he did during the trial but slightly more scruffy and dishevelled.

Defence lawyer Marc Crerar told Justice Judith Shriar that he had met with his client just over a week ago.

Crerar said both his meeting and the letter from forensic psychiatrist Dr. Reilly Smith "confirms an extremely concerning situation" regarding Mantha's ability to communicate.

• Richard Mantha trial: Woman testifies she learned she was raped after seeing herself in video

The defence lawyer expressed concern about his client's ability to instruct counsel in advance of the trial.

Prosecutor Dominique Mathurin noted that Smith's letter details issues Mantha has with communicating and writing.

Smith told the court in his letter that he can not make a determination yet as to whether Mantha is fit to stand trial.

Smith requested more time to assess Mantha, which Shriar allowed.

"That's everything for now?" Shriar asked.

Mantha nodded.